I run an internationally known resume writing and career strategy firm called Refresh Your Step, and in my work, I've heard about and seen countless "resume rules" regarding what makes a resume most effective. From requests for crafting über-creative resumes to suggestions from well-meaning friends — "My mom's best friend's nephew said I should add keywords in white font at the bottom of a resume so no one sees it but will get past Applicant Tracking Systems" — I've heard it all.

Other than ensuring your resume is error-free and accurate in terms of your career details, are there any true "resume rules" that can be applied across all resumes?

Many say no, but I disagree. Having worked with countless clients from diverse levels, sectors, backgrounds and countries — all of whom have distinct needs and career aspirations — I can tell you about one resume rule to rule them all.

The "Consistency Of Excellence" Principle

Your resume (or CV) is a marketing tool, and the product it is marketing is you. The resume is not meant to be a laundry list of things you've done so much as clearly indicated ways you've been effective throughout your career.

The latter is what hiring managers and recruiters want to see, and whether you are a soon-to-be-graduating college student with very little experience looking for an entry-level role, or a C-Suite finance executive hoping to bridge years of experience to the nonprofit world, your whole goal is to show that — regardless of what you've done so far — you have consistently done excellent work (hence, "consistency of excellence").

How It Works

Set aside a few minutes to ponder the following ideas — and be prepared to take some notes:

To date, what have I done that has made a difference? How have I been integral to different projects, initiatives and organizational goals?

Delve a little deeper:

With each of these, what was the goal, what steps did I take, what was the outcome, and where is this today?

Take a break, come back to it, add more, and perhaps engage a few others in the process. Speak with your former co-workers, current manager or family members who know about the work you do. Very often, they will remind you of points you might have otherwise missed. Additionally, review performance reviews and consider jotting down notes about relevant school projects, leadership roles in community organizations, and even about that time you helped raise money for a cause. All of this information boils down to one point: showcasing your consistency of excellence.